Hi All,
     I have taught many different type of classes and groups and am very
aware of the issues involved with the issues on formula/breastfeeding in
a class situation.
    I have not been controlled by our local hospital on the issue of
breastfeeding and not mentioning formula and/or making the moms feel
'guilty,' as my prenatal class is the breastfeeding class. However,
personally, I walk a thin line, as I am there teaching in the capacity
of LLL Leader and I do not want to present a 'image' of rigid or
overbearing. I do mention that advantages of breastfeeding from the
positive angle and do mention (when I feel many of the moms are eligible
for WIC) that the WIC program does not supply all the formula your
infant will require and that the MOM's benefits last longer if they
breastfeed. Otherwise, unless a specific question is directed to me, I
avoid the issue. Just a personal position.
    When dealing with my teen groups (two different groups, one for
pregnant teen moms and the other a mixed high school class), I do take a
more proactive view of dispelling myths concerning breastfeeding and
mention the risks of formula use. I try to do this as positively as
possible, but I do feel that young people need the truth to be able to
make an informed choice in the future, whether that future is a few
weeks away or years away. I do not know the results of such actions,
although I have been invited back to both groups, so I can't be too
offending!
    When is guilt concerning breastfeeding or formula feeding going to
be done away with? I have a MD on my case, to the point that I do not
even want to return when I need to, because of my cholesterol level. He
wants the low fat diet, exercise, etc and that is all that he converses
about at most of my visits. Most of the other risks that occur for
concern of  high cholesterol and heart attack/disease, don't exist, and
my cholesterol is 'that' high, so I am beginning to tune him out. This
is not a good medical situation for me.
     I just wonder why some MDs feel the use of guilt is so appropriate
of a medical technique on some issues and yet are so vehment that it not
be used in issues concerning breastfeeding/formula?
    Just MHO and .02 worth.

Leslie Ward
Vine Grove, KY
"Love yourself; get outside yourself and take action. Focus on the
solution; be at peace." Sioux proverb